Liverpool fans might take a bit of solace at seeing one of their stars returning to full training. Philippe Coutinho had picked up ankle ligament damage against Sunderland on November 26 and was expected to be out for a while but he seems to be on track to returning quickly.

The 24-year-old has been one of the best players in the Premier League and his injury certainly put doubts on Liverpool’s challenge for a title challenge. It was initially expected that Coutinho would be out for months but the club reported that the former Inter Milan star could return to face Manchester City on New Year’s Eve.

Unfortunately for the Reds, Coutinho did not manage to make a return, but that didn’t matter as the Reds managed to pick up all three points against Man City to make a strong statement in the title race. However, prior to the match, the Brazilian returned to full training and these pictures from Liverpool FC will allay some fears that Coutinho could take a lot longer to return.

The Brazilian had scored five goals and provided five assists in the Premier League this season and had formed a great partnership in the attack with Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane. While Coutinho did miss out on the all-important clash against Manchester City, it still is an important time for him to return.

Mane’s absence is time for Coutinho to get back

Sadio Mane has also been incredible for the side this season but the former Southampton attacker will be leaving for the African Cup of Nations soon and Coutinho returning to the first team couldn’t have come at a better time.

The Senegalese star’ pace will certainly be missed by the Reds but Coutinho’s creativity could give them the edge that they need to break down the opposition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30LopWcC020